PAUL Simpson’s hopes of victory at the North Oxford Pro-Am lasted just one hole as he ended up in hospital after being struck in the head by a wayward ball.

Play was stopped to allow an ambulance on to the course after the 42-year-old was knocked out walking to the second tee.

The professional at West Berks, who lives in Witney, suffered concussion but was released from hospital later in the day following a check-up.

Simpson, who was back playing within three days, said: “I don’t remember too much, apart from getting a bang on the head.

“It was all very quick, North Oxford is probably the best place to get hit because the hospital is on the doorstep.

“It’s the first time I’ve been hit like that, but I suppose you’re lucky not to have that happen after playing for about 30 years.”

Simpson was one of the pre-event favourites and when the tournament resumed three players shot 69 to share the title.

Studley Wood’s Dusan Gavrilovic made it three wins from three attempts in the competition, while his score was matched by Dan Seymour and Ian Campbell.

Gavrilovic, 52, was a couple of groups ahead of Simpson’s and saw the ambulance arrive.

He said: “It was a completely freaky thing because that area of the course looked quite well protected.

“It was a bit unnerving, I was worried for him because we’re mates.

“It’s a horrible thing to happen to anybody, especially someone you know well.

“I spoke to him later and thankfully he was OK, just a bit groggy.”

Gavrilovic is now focusing on qualifying for the Senior Open, held at Royal Birkdale later this month.